Uncle Peabody was genuinely surprised by Helen’s manner as well as by her words.
“How much longer are you going to stay in Florence, Helen?” he asked, pointedly.
“I don’t really know,” she replied, frankly. “Our original plan was to leave early in July; but that is only about a month from now, and I presume Jack will require a longer time to complete his work.”
“He has not made any definite plans, then?”
“No, and I hope we shall stay at least as long as that. The things which I have in mind may require even more time than I suspect.”
“And these things are—”
“You inquisitive old Uncle Peabody!” Helen took his face between her hands as she kissed him affectionately. “I will tell you all in good time, and you shall be the first to know!”